ASPHALT VS RUBBER SHINGLES

Northeast Michigan is known for it’s breathtaking beauty, where rugged coastlines, dense forests, and peaceful inland lakes create a landscape like no other.

As we all know, with the beauty of this gorgeous landscape, also comes the wind.

Along the Lake Huron shoreline, towns like Alpena, Rogers City, and Oscoda feel the full power of the lake’s breezes, especially in the fall and winter when gusts sweep in from the open water.

The Presque Isle Peninsula stands defiantly against strong winds that roll across Thunder Bay, while inland, open farmland near Hubbard Lake, Hillman and Lachine experience unbroken gusts that ripple through the fields.

For homeowners and business owners in Northeast Michigan's wind-prone areas, rubberized shingles offer superior durability, flexibility, and impact resistance, ensuring long-lasting protection against high winds, harsh weather, and the region’s ever-changing elements. Check out the many benefits of rubberized shingles for your home or business:

Flexibility

  • Asphalt Shingles: Standard shingles can become brittle over time, especially in cold weather, making them prone to cracking.

  • Rubberized Shingles: More flexible, making them less likely to crack or break in cold temperatures. They also have better impact resistance against hail and debris.

Wind & Weather Resistance

  • Asphalt Shingles: Can withstand moderate winds, but cheaper options may fail under high wind conditions.

  • Rubberized Shingles: Malarkey shingles are designed to handle higher wind speeds (up to 130+ mph) due to their flexibility and improved adhesion.

Environmental Impact

  • Asphalt Shingles: Traditional shingles contribute more waste since they use petroleum-based asphalt without recycled content.

  • Malarkey Rubberized Shingles: Eco-friendly, incorporating upcycled rubber tires and plastic that would otherwise end up in landfills. This makes them a greener alternative.

Longevity & Warranty

  • Asphalt Shingles: Lifespan ranges from 15-30 years, depending on quality.

  • Rubberized Shingles: Malarkey’s rubberized shingles last longer, with some models exceeding 30+ years due to their enhanced durability.

Cost

  • Asphalt Shingles: More affordable upfront.

  • Rubberized Shingles: Higher initial cost but potentially lower maintenance and replacement costs in the long run.

Best for...

  • Standard Asphalt Shingles: Budget-conscious projects, mild climates, or shorter-term roofing solutions.

  • Malarkey Rubberized Shingles: Harsh climates (cold, hail, high winds), environmentally-conscious homeowners, or those looking for a longer-lasting, high-performance roofing option.

If you're looking at a high-end, impact-resistant, eco-friendly option, Malarkey's rubberized shingles are a great choice. However, if budget is a priority, traditional asphalt shingles may still be the best fit.

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